The Women & Golf magazine research found that not only is there the potential to recruit millions of women to play golf, but many then introduce their children and friends to the game as well.

The survey of 3,500 people found that a staggering 48 percent of lady golfers have children who also play the game and that more women than men are interested in taking up golf.

However, more than half of female golfers said they sometimes feel intimidated by other members at their clubs, as well as club staff, and more than two-thirds said they only want to play golf with friends or family members. Just under half of all non-playing females said they would consider trying golf, but only if they played with someone they knew.

“This is an important piece of research as it articulates what women want in a golf facility, underlines their important role in nurturing young players and, notably, demonstrates a level of interest among non-players that represents a significant opportunity for the golf business,” said Alison Root, editor of Women & Golf.